National Indigenous team downs Ontario Black in the opening game of the 2024 U18 Women’s National Championship, marking the program’s first win in history
Photo Creds: Paul Jordan Photography
July 22, 2024, Fredericton, NB – The National Indigenous team made history at the 2024 U18 Women’s National Championship, securing their first-ever victory with a thrilling 32-21 win over Ontario Black at the BMO Centre in Fredericton, NB, on Monday morning.
In a game that showcased the rising talent in women’s football across Canada, the National Indigenous team’s explosive offense and resilient defense proved to be the deciding factors in this high-scoring affair.
The National Indigenous team struck first, with quarterback Sienna Deschambault connecting with Taj-Marie Thompson for a 15-yard touchdown pass at 10:59 in the first quarter. The failed conversion attempt left the score at 6-0.
Ontario Black responded in the second quarter when Paige Ryce punched in a 1-yard run at 04:03, but a blocked kick kept the score tied at 6-6 heading into halftime.
The third quarter saw an explosion of scoring from both sides. The National Indigenous team quickly took control, scoring a safety and then capitalizing on a 75-yard touchdown pass from Deschambault to Thompson. Ontario Black answered with a 76-yard touchdown run by Braylynn Hawthorne-Harper, but the National Indigenous team struck back immediately with another Deschambault to Thompson connection, this time for 54 yards. The quarter ended with the National Indigenous team leading 24-13.
The final quarter began with Ontario Black narrowing the gap on a 76-yard interception return for a touchdown by Stacey St-Amand. However, the National Indigenous team sealed their victory with a 13-yard touchdown run by Dorothy Trudeau at 05:21, bringing the final score to 32-21.
The game’s standout performer was undoubtedly Taj-Marie Thompson of the National Indigenous team, who caught nine passes for 232 yards and three touchdowns. Quarterback Sienna Deschambault also had an impressive showing, completing 12 of 16 passes for 228 yards and three touchdowns. Dorothy Trudeau led the ground game with 157 yards and a touchdown on 26 carries.
For Ontario Black, B. Hawthorne-Harper’s 76-yard touchdown run and Stacey St-Amand’s interception return for a touchdown were the highlights of their strong effort. St-Amand also led the team’s defense with 11 solo tackles and 3 assists.
The National Indigenous team dominated in total offense, accumulating 437 yards compared to Ontario Black’s 175 yards. They also controlled the time of possession, holding the ball for 28:58 compared to Ontario Black’s 19:02.
This victory marks a historic moment for the National Indigenous team, as it is their first win in the U18 Women’s National Championship. The significance of this achievement cannot be overstated, as it represents a major step forward in the development and recognition of Indigenous women in football.
MVP’s of the Game
National Indigenous
Offensive
WR – Taj-Marie Thompson
Defensive
DB – Justice Berens
Ontario Black
Offensive
QB – Braylnn Hawthorn-Harper
Defensive
LB – Stacey St-Amand
Full detailed stats and game play-by-play information can be found here.
About U18 Women’s National Championship: The U18 Women’s National Championship is a premier event in the Canadian football calendar, showcasing the best young female talent from across the country. This tournament serves as a crucial platform for player development and provides a pathway for athletes aspiring to compete at higher levels, including national team programs.
About Football Canada: Football Canada is the national governing body for amateur football in Canada. Football Canada’s mission is to initiate, sustain, and encourage programs, services, and activities targeted at all levels of the game of football in Canada. The organization oversees various programs and competitions, including national championships, coach and official certification programs, and national team programs for tackle, flag, and touch football. Football Canada is committed to fostering the growth and development of football at all levels across the country.
About Football New Brunswick: Football New Brunswick is the provincial sport governing body for amateur football in New Brunswick. The organization is dedicated to promoting, developing, and governing all aspects of football within the province. Football New Brunswick works tirelessly to provide opportunities for athletes, coaches, and officials at all levels of the sport. Through various programs and initiatives, they aim to increase participation, improve the quality of play, and create a positive and inclusive football community throughout New Brunswick. As hosts of this year’s U18 Women’s National Championship, Football New Brunswick demonstrates its commitment to advancing women’s football and showcasing the province’s sporting capabilities on a national stage.
For more information about the 2024 U18 Women’s National Championship, visit footballcanada.com or contact bstachel@footballcanada.com.
